Ashwagandha, popularly known as Indian Ginseng, is a medicinal plant, scientifically named Withaia somnifera, widely used to help improve physical and mental performance, and may be indicated in cases of stress and general fatigue.
This plant belongs to the family of solemn plants, such as tomato, and also has red fruits and yellow flowers, although only its roots are used for medicinal purposes.
The use of this medicinal plant may have several health benefits such as:
In addition, this herb can also be used in some cases to supplement cancer treatment, as it makes cancer cells more sensitive to radiation or chemotherapy.
The parts that can be used from Ashwagandha are the roots and leaves that can be used in:
In any case, it is always important to consult a doctor or a herbalist to adapt the use of this plant to the problem to be treated.
Side effects are rare, but can include diarrhea, heartburn, or vomiting.
Ashwagandha is contraindicated in pregnant or nursing women, patients with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus or in people with stomach ulcers.
Because the plant has a sedative effect, people who take sleeping pills, such as barbiturates, should avoid the use of this medicine, as well as the consumption of alcoholic beverages.